Autism is not a disability, it’s a different ability
What makes you different is what makes you beautiful
World Autism Awareness Day is observed every year on 2nd April to call attention to the need to assist improve the quality of life of individuals with autism so that they can lead wholesome and meaningful lives as integral members of society. To promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all people with disabilities The United Nations General Assembly unanimously designated 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day. It was first observed in 2008. Numerous landmarks, buildings, homes and communities around the world come together with the international community on April 2, Autism Awareness Day, to Light It Up Blue to celebrate individuals with autism and people who love and support them.
Autism-friendly events and educational activities take place throughout the month, with an aim to foster worldwide support for people with disabilities, increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism, and encourage the creation of a kinder, more inclusive world.
Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, regardless of an individuals’ gender, race or socio-economic status. It is a developmental disability that remains with a person for his or her entire life. People with autism face myriad challenges and often find social interactions difficult, encounter problems with verbal and non-verbal communication, exhibit restrictive and repetitive behaviour and indicate inclination towards a limited set of interests and activities. Autism comes under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), where spectrum means a range of characteristics. There are four types of ASD – Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Pervasive Development Disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)[1]. Hence, a baby with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be unresponsive to people, or can be noticed focusing intently on one item for long periods of time even as an infant. Over the years, a child with ASD gradually withdraws and becomes indifferent to social engagement, known as regression of milestones, which is seen in nearly one fourth of autistic children.
World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated with different themes each year. These themes focus on various aspects related to the disorder and try to conquer them one by one. This year, in 2021, the theme chosen by the UN is “Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in a Post-Pandemic World.” People with autism have long faced countless inequalities, especially when it comes to income and wealth distribution, access to health care, protection under the law, and political inclusion which have only been further aggravated by the pandemic. It’s a problem made worse by long recognized discriminatory hiring practices and workplace environments that present major impediments for persons with autism; all of which contribute to the unemployment or severe underemployment of a large majority of adults on the autism spectrum. The 2021 World Autism Awareness Day observance will address these issues through a virtual event that will include moderated panel discussions with individuals on the autism spectrum who have themselves experienced the challenges and seen these new opportunities in the employment market.[2]
According to the World Health Organization one out of every 68 children is living with autism. The prevalence is currently rising in many countries around the world. However, there is a lack of awareness about this disorder on a whole. People living with ASD are prone to problems relating to communication and social interaction. These issues can be tackled successfully if ASD is detected at a young age and thereof managed-well. Through WAAD, United Nations aims to raise awareness about ASD. It aims to help people detect the signs of autism in children at an early age and to fight the challenges faced by people on the spectrum.
There is no cure for autism, but there are umpteen ways to treat autism spectrum disorders, but they can only be reached when the person is diagnosed. By becoming aware we can help others to get in touch with specialists and start a treatment that can increase their wellness. People with autism spectrum disorders have specific characteristics, behaviours, tastes, and ways to do things. The key is to understand their way to see the world and their performance without trying to make them change.
Autism is like a rainbow
It has a bright side and a darker side
But every shade is beautiful
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres sums up the significance of WAAD saying, “On World Autism Awareness Day, we speak out against discrimination, celebrate the diversity of our global community and strengthen our commitment to the full inclusion and participation of people with autism. Supporting them to achieve their full potential is a vital part of our efforts to uphold the core promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: to leave no one behind.”[3]
People with autism spectrum disorders can help to make a change in the world. All they need to grow is a healthy environment and support from their near and dear ones. Take example of people like Tim Burton, Charles Darwin, Bill Gates, and Albert Einstein. Become an advocate for the autistic community by educating the masses. There are a huge number of myths and misconceptions circulating about individuals with autism:
· Autistic people don’t feel emotions.
· Autistic people have an intellectual disability & can’t speak.
· Autistic people cannot learn.
· People with autism are best suited for jobs that entail repetitive tasks.
· People with autism cannot form relationships.
· Autism is caused by poor parenting, unloving mothers, and vaccines.
The important thing is to ensure that we, and those around us, are properly educated as to what is and isn’t true about autism.
This World Autism Awareness Day lets pledge to do our bit and acknowledge and celebrate the unique gifts ASD kids are born with so that no one is left behind.
Autism is not a choice. Acceptance is.
--Written by Neelam (1st Year)
Comments